Wednesday's commentary: Colleen Wheaton of CSEA Central Region 5 says merger of Upstate Medical University and Community General hospitals good for community

On behalf of the tens of thousands of health care workers represented by CSEA, many right here in Onondaga County, I am writing in support of Upstate Medical University’s acquisition of Community General Hospital.

This merger is a positive step that will maintain important health care services and keep jobs in Central New York.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that the merger will guarantee the continuity of quality care at both hospitals. Upstate’s acquisition is a lifeline to Community General Hospital, its patients and its employees, and an opportunity our community cannot afford to turn down.

It will allow the same local doctors and nurses to continue working at Community General, and should not result in any major changes to how patients receive their health care. The acquisition will also allow Upstate to expand its capacity and enhance its important educational mission.

The administrations of Upstate and Community General have done their best to make sure that all involved have had their concerns heard and their issues addressed to the best extent possible.

Over the past months, our union representatives have been periodically updated by the administration at Upstate regarding the impact of this merger. Despite claims to the contrary, this has not been “rushed.” The only “rush” is to prevent the imminent closure of Community General.

Meanwhile, there have been numerous efforts to be transparent and communicate openly, by holding public hearings, sponsoring employee forums and establishing a website to facilitate the flow of information to both workers and the public.

As the union currently representing the workers at Upstate Medical University Hospital, we know firsthand the needs and concerns of health care workers.

We are closely monitoring this process because we want to ensure that the rights of all employees involved are fairly respected. CSEA has a long record of experience in similar circumstances in protecting workers’ rights successfully and effectively.

This is an endeavor that has already been supported by many, including the board of directors at Community General Hospital, the administration at Upstate and the Hospital Executive Council. We are proud to add CSEA’s name to that list of supporters, and look forward to making the transition for the workers as smooth as possible.